Job Description

Cranleigh are partnering with a leading international materials manufacturer to recruit an

R&D Project Leader

for their expanding technical team in Kent.


This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced R&D or technical professional from the building materials, polymers, or wider materials manufacturing sector to lead product and system testing programmes within a well-established organisation.

R&D Project Leader

Permanent, Full-time

Kent (Hybrid: 1-2 days WFH per week once settled)

45,000 + 10% PRB + Excellent Benefits

R&D Project Leader

Responsibilities:

Lead and support the development and testing of new products and systems, ensuring performance meets design specifications through structured preparation and coordination. Design, set up, and conduct mechanical and performance testing in collaboration with the R&D Technician. Plan and oversee drywall system testing programmes (acoustic, fire, and structural). Record and analyse data accurately, maintaining detailed logs and producing reports to support technical and strategic decisions. Contribute to the continuous improvement of existing products and systems to optimise material use, costs, and quality. Investigate product performance issues or customer complaints to identify root causes and support corrective actions. Maintain a safe, organised, and compliant laboratory environment. Collaborate with internal departments and external partners to deliver successful R&D projects. Travel across Europe when required for testing, collaboration, and technical meetings.

R&D Project Leader

Requirements:

Degree (or equivalent) in a building, materials science, or engineering discipline. Experience in R&D, product development, or testing within construction materials, polymers, foams, or adjacent manufacturing sectors. Understanding of fire and acoustic testing (desirable but not essential). Proficiency with AutoCAD or similar software for designing and interpreting technical drawings. Strong technical, analytical, and communication skills. Ability to work effectively both independently and cross-functionally. UK driver's licence required. Strong attention to detail, scientific rigour, and awareness of health and safety practices.

Benefits:

25 days annual leave + bank holidays (with the option to buy or sell up to 10 days). Three paid days per year for community, charitable, or voluntary commitments. 7% employer pension contribution. Level 3 Westfield Cashplan Healthcare. Income Protection. Life Assurance (4x basic salary). Access to a Reward & Benefits platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Cycle to Work and Tech Schemes.

If you're passionate about developing and testing innovative building materials and want to be part of a company that invests in its people and technology, get in touch with me directly or apply!